The common idea of all my work is that every collection is defined by the fabric that I find. The process of a new collection begins with the sourcing of deadstock fabric, the textiles offer the main inspiration. This procedure can be seen as an interesting inversion of the usual design process in the fashion business, where the design dictates the production of fabric. I reverse this process, the fabric dictates my work, other than me dictating the fabric; which colors and what patterns will I perceive and what are my associations with the given material? This is my approach to make fashion more sustainable. In addition, it limits the collection; I can only make as many pieces as the fabric will allow me to. While working in my studio in Basel I try to keep track of time closely, so I know how long each of the steps of production takes. On the one hand the track of time provides information to determine the price of the goods, on the other hand it helps to create a deeper consciousness for the effort that is needed to create the finished product.

What justifies the existence of fashion? What legitimizes me to create fashion? Questions that every designer must ask themselves, especially now. The function of clothing is to protect, spend warmth, cover, coat, explain and delights us. Fashion starts in the midst of all these terms, there, where functionality is being replaced by aesthetics. Fashion is a statement and a way of life, an exposure of the inner to the outer world, it helps one to stand out from the masses, but also, or perhaps precisely because of it, it creates a belonging through clothing; the paradox of fashion. Fashion in the narrower sense was previously reserved for an elite class, nowadays the perception of fashion is changing, it is accessible to everyone and can be lived more freely and inclusive. Actually, a welcome development, but this evolution is not without consequences for our planet. An unfortunate cycle has established itself, breaking it is difficult. Fast fashion brands are copying the visions of designers, presenting new collections monthly, delivering it to their stores all around the world and selling it cheap to keep their customers satisfied, the result is an astonishing amount of clothing produced and sold, but on the other hand an incredible waste of resources and the shocking reality of discarded unworn clothes. With my work I want to position myself against this destructive system that is driven by profit. Fashion can only retain its justification if it’s challenging and when it’s sustainable, as well as a more conscious and reduced consumption by society. The craft and the value of things need to be put back into focus.